SKYWARN is open to all individuals who have a genuine interest in protecting the public from the effects of severe weather. It matters not what organization you belong to, your age, your family situation, or your physical abilities. All that is required is that you attend regularly scheduled SKYWARN spotter training instructed by the National Weather Service. As far as amateur radio operators are concerned, the same guidelines apply. It makes no difference if you are a member of RACES, ARES, or the local amateur radio club. SKYWARN is a program of the Department of Commerce and is administered by the NWS. There is no place for politics or discrimination based on what group you may be associated with. In fact these disagreements between groups can only degrade the level of cooperation and ultimately put residents in harm's way. It is essential to find a way to work together during these severe weather events.
In closing, there is no substitution for planning, training and cooperation.